“So much muscle memory needs rewiring”: Valorant Players Making the Switch to Console Are Struggling Big Time with 1 Issue

Valorant's console release is making players learnt he game from scratch.

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SUMMARY

  • With Valorant making its debut on consoles, players accustomed to the PC version are facing trouble.
  • As you'd probably expect, the main difficulty players are facing is the switch from mouse and keyboard to controller.
  • Riot Games also added aim assist in the console version but it's a different kind than players are used to.
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Riot Games’ tactical FPS shooter Valorant is finally in its console beta. But many players have been left struggling despite the hype. Fans who are already accustomed to the PC version of the game are facing a rough, but funny transition.

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The main difficulty for players is the switch to a controller after months or years of using a mouse and keyboard. This transition requires a complete overhaul of muscle memory, particularly since strafing while shooting now impacts accuracy. This has led to many missed shots and comical gameplay clips that some have shared.

Valorant Players Are Struggling With The Switch To Controller

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An in-game screenshot of Valorant
An in-game screenshot of Valorant

Console players accustomed to other tactical shooters like Rainbow Six Siege or Insurgency face a steep learning curve with Valorant. Unlike these games, you can’t move while shooting in Valorant due to inaccuracy. As one user noted, even experienced players who have tons of hours on PC or other console FPS games still forget this aspect.

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Valorant also requires precise aim and movement control, which is difficult to achieve with thumbsticks compared to a mouse. This has gotten players a bit frustrated as they struggle with the new way of playing. There have been many posts on the game’s subreddit with players sharing their experiences.

Many players talk about feeling like they are starting from scratch. They’re unable to replicate their PC performance and frequently miss shots they would have easily landed with a mouse.

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Aim assist in Valorant‘s console version has been designed to support the game’s unique demands while avoiding excessive automation. Unlike some games where aim assist can feel like an aimbot, the aim assist on console is a more subtle aid, aiming to keep the combat experience challenging and skill-based.

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This system slows down the crosshair movement when aiming at an enemy, giving players a slight edge while still requiring skill and precision. But for those used to traditional aim assist, this has been off-putting and requires a period of adjustment.

The Technical Aspect of Playing Valorant on Console

Omen taking a shot.
Riot’s FPS shooter continues to grow every day. | Image credit: Riot Games

Players have also reported varying experiences with frame rates on different consoles, with some struggling to find optimal settings. The Xbox Series S, for instance, can run the game at 60 FPS in 4K or 120 FPS at 1440p if supported by the display.

Cheating and the use of unauthorized input devices, such as XIM adapters that mimic mouse and keyboard controls on the console, have also been a concern. Riot Games has assured players that their anti-cheat systems are equipped to detect and ban these players. 

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Riot has been actively engaging with the community to gather feedback and make necessary adjustments. The aim is to create a balanced and enjoyable experience for all players, regardless of their platform.

With continuous practice and adjustment, players can overcome these challenges once again and enjoy the game’s competitive gameplay on a new platform. 

Have you been playing Valorant‘s console beta? Let us know in the comments!

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Written by Daniel Royte

Articles Published: 183

Daniel is a gamer through and through with a passion for gaming in his veins. His current adventures have taken him into the world of Elden Ring, Wuthering Waves, and Genshin Impact, amongst others.